Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
THE recently concluded sixth Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) was by far one of the most sensational spectacles over the years. Spectators flocked at the World Trade Center in Pasay City to see not only the vehicles on display but also to appreciate numerous luxurious, high performances, concept design and iconic cars. Themed as “Steer the Future” was all about revealing to the motoring fans the vast modern innovations and previews of what the future of automotive has in store for us.
Paint the town in “Soul Red”
For Mazda Philippines, it wasn’t just about displaying its stunning vehicles. Absolute uniformity and a dazzling display of its KODO Soul of Motion design-inspired vehicles was the way to pull off a great exhibition. Seeing all its cars in premium “Soul Red” shade, not to mention how the units were arranged, definitely drew attention from the crowd. Everything—from its sedan lineup, hatch, roadster, to crossovers—was there to elevate the “zoom-zoom”
campaign. One particular model took center stage as the latest addition to the manufacturer’s enthusing roster. The recently launched CX-3 subcompact crossover is claimed to be the ideal choice for the growing market segment. With its emotive and functional design, no wonder it is dubbed as the “freestyle smart crossover.” Rather than being perceived as a smaller CX-5, it delivers elevated levels of style, class, comfort, safety and performance to establish its own distinction.
Oh my GT-R!
Perhaps one of the highly anticipated presentations was the launch of the 2017 edition Nissan GT-R. This legendary sports car, also known as “Godzilla” to most enthusiasts, has finally made available locally. The updated version highlights exterior enhancements for better engine cooling and more aero dynamic profiles. Even the interior, particularly the dashboard and center console, got some refinements to promote a better driver-oriented cockpit. Of course, under the hood is the same Takumi-handcrafted VR38DETT 3.8-liter V6, twin-turbocharged engine. However, it now generates more output with 570 PS and a massive 637 N-m of maximum torque. The powerful motor is mated to an improved smooth shifting with less noise six-speed dual-clutch gearbox. No other than Nissan GT-R chief Product Specialist Hiroshi Tamura presented the new GT-R. “The new GT-R delivers a heart-pounding driving experience at all times and on any road for whoever sits in the driver’s seat. We have continued to push its performance boundaries to the outer limits—it’s even more potent than before. At the same time, more refinement has been added to take the entire driving experience to an entirely new level. We’re proud to bring you what we feel is the ultimate GT that possesses amazing performance, newfound civility and a rich racing history,” he explained.
Autonomous virtual-driving experience
For Columbian Autocar Corp., it was about presenting the future of Kia vehicles to their followers. An 18-seat virtual reality theater was set up for everyone to experience the new autonomous driving version of the Soul. This particular model is the Korean automaker’s entry to the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. It featured Kia’s advanced driver assistance systems technology, which granted by the state for testing on public roads. Aside from the featured Soul variant, on display is the all-new Sportage compact sport-utilty vehicle, along with the people mover Grand Carnival, and the subcompact Picanto.
American off-roader and German opulence
Auto Nation Group Inc. showcased two of its well-known car brands in separate but well-presented booths. One is the display of iconic American off-road vehicles. Aside from the classic Rubicon and the Cherokee, the established figure in rugged applications launched the all-new Renegade 4X4 as the manufacturer’s entry to the small sport-utility vehicle segment. On the other hand, German automaker Mercedes-Benz presented its exhibition of luxury and high-performance cars all in white shade, conveying opulence as well as uniformity. One absolute crowd drawer was the AMG GT S two-door sports car. Also, the new V-Class debuted as the brand’s multipurpose vehicle and people hauler, succeeding the once known Ssangyong based MB100 van.
Modern-day mass transit
Columbian Manufacturing Corp. (CMANC), the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of Daewoo buses in the country, is redefining one of the most utilized means of public transport. With the introduction of its new BS120SN low-floor bus design, commuters will be provided with the kind of comfort ideal whether for long-distance travel or everyday commuting. The comfortable seating configurations can accommodate 47 passengers and 53 more standees. Also, this bus is persons with disabilities-friendly and equipped with wheelchair ramp and provisions for easy access. Other provisions are for tap-and-pay system, closed-circuit television, electronic signage and public address system, among others. More so, this Daewoo bus is also intended for both bus Rapid Transport and Airport Transport System. Best of all, it is powered by a Euro 5-compliant diesel engine that is absolutely eco-friendly.
Image credits: Mazda Philippines, Randy S. Peregrino